When to go
Years ago, Atlanta,
Georgia was a bastion of the Confederacy during the Civil War; today, the city is better known for being a major travel hub and for offering a bustling, vibrant city life along with many topnotch travel deals. As many an Atlanta travel guide will point out, the city is a major hub of the New South - but still manages to retain enough of its original southern charm to keep people coming back for phenomenal Atlanta travel deals again and again. Cheap flights, cheap hotels and travel discounts are abundant in Atlanta, so plan on saving a lot of cash with cheap flights to Atlanta and through other deals while having a truly terrific time.
Despite being located on at a higher elevation that makes it cooler on average than many other southern cities, Atlanta isn't called "Hotlanta" strictly because of its thriving nightlife. Cheap hotels here can book solid all year round. As any popular Atlanta guide is sure to note, during the summer months the weather can be quite severe in terms of sheer heat and humidity. Many travel websites recommend visiting during the spring or the fall; top marks tend to go to April and May for having the most temperate, pleasant weather - and some of the best Atlanta travel deals as well. All year round, however, Atlanta travel deals like cheap hotels and cheap flights to Atlanta abound and are quite easy to come by. Familiarize yourself with the area through a top Atlanta travel guide and do a little bit of research to track down the very best airline tickets for your vacation; in the end, you will enjoy the very best Atlanta travel deals around and save oodles of cash.
How to get there
As Delta's base of operations, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the world. Finding cheap airline tickets is pretty easy, since there is so much competition and so many different airlines and flights to choose from. Very competitive airline ticket prices are available for flights into Atlanta, especially if you're willing to do a little bit of looking.
In terms of getting around the city, a rental car is generally going to be your best bet. Although the MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) serves the city of Atlanta, it is imperfect and is not generally recommended for out-of-towners. Besides, traveling by car is the norm in this hopping city; you'll find that most attractions and restaurants are quite accommodating to automobiles. Major interstates that serve Atlanta include the north-south I-75 and the east-west I-85.
Where to stay
Thanks to its massive airport and large population, Atlanta has many great options when it comes to hotel deals. People on a tight budget should consider staying at a hotel near the airport; the Sheraton Gateway Hotel Atlanta Airport (1900 Sullivan Rd, Atlanta) is an excellent, budget-friendly pick. For great quality with reasonable prices - i.e., middle of the road accommodation - check out the W Atlanta Midtown (188 14th Street NE, Atlanta). Finally, top of the line accommodations and incredible amenities can be had at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead (3434 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta).
What to do
If you've never been to Atlanta before, then you're going to have to stop by the Coca-Cola Museum downtown. The relatively new Georgia Aquarium is a must-see spot in the city; try to stop by if you have the time. For some excellent night entertainment, take in the improv at Dad's Garage. If the outdoors and hiking are your thing then be sure to head over to Stone Mountain; there are plenty of excellent hiking trails to check out.
Where to eat
Depending on what you're in the mood for, you're bound to find someplace spectacular to eat in Atlanta. If you're in the mood for chili dogs, for instance, you absolutely must stop by The Varsity (61 North Avenue, Atlanta). It's an Atlanta institution, and it offers some of the best onion rings you'll ever eat. Sample some phenomenal barbecue at Daddy D'z (264 Memorial Drive, Atlanta) or try some down home, Southern fried catfish at Fat Matt's Chicken Shack (1811 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta). Finally, treat your taste buds to some upscale southwestern fare at Agave (242 Boulevard SE, Atlanta); they also have a great tequila bar.